Question

Can i use my CD4 count to tell how long i’ve been infected?

28 August 2014. Related: All topics, CD4 and viral load, HIV transmission, Newly diagnosed.

I recently found out i am HIV positive. Can i use my CD4 count to tell how long i have been infected?

Answer

Answer: Robin Jakob

Hi,

I’m sorry to hear about your diagnosis

CD4 counts and how fast or slow they change can vary widely from person to person. For this reason you can’t use it to tell how long someone has been infected.

In the UK you can take a test called RITA that can tell you if you have been infected in the last 6 months. You can ask your doctor or clinic if it is available there.

You can find a more detailed answer to a similar question about finding out when you were infected here.

You can find more information about being newly diagnosed online.